Frances "Fran" Patricia Schlede

Frances "Fran" Patricia Schlede was born on March 17, 1941, in Warroad, Minnesota, to George Benjamin Schlede and Marguerite Elizabeth Schlede. Fran's early years were filled with a love of dance, including ballet and tap, which she enjoyed into her teenage years. Her family later moved to New Orleans and eventually settled in Denver, Colorado, where Fran graduated from South High School. She went on to business college, determined to become an executive secretary.

In time, Fran met and married Bobby Dwayne Reeves, and they were blessed with three daughters—Dianne, Dana, and Jamie—whom she considered her greatest joys and achievements. Though Fran and Bobby later divorced in 1970, Fran remained a devoted single mother who poured her energy into raising her daughters and building a successful career.

Fran worked as a bookkeeper in the long-term care industry, where her compassion for residents and her dedication to her work earned her the love and respect of those around her. A breast cancer survivor, Fran showed remarkable resilience, teaching her family that no challenge is too great to overcome.

Fran was a loyal fan of the Denver Broncos, cheering for her team every week with enthusiasm. She also had a special love for animals, growing especially close to the last few dogs she had, Muffy, Scooter, Dickens, Teddy, Daisy, Johnny, Maddie, Ozzie, DeeDee, and Gizmo.

Fran's legacy of kindness, resilience, and love for her family and pets will be remembered by all who knew her.

Fran was predeceased by her parents, George and Marguerite Schlede, and her brother, Richard William Schlede. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Dianne Bennett (Bert), Dana Reeves (David Coons), and Jamie Reeves; her grandchildren, Michael Reeves (Candice), Patrick Reeves, Hollie Ryckman (Alex), Emily Bennett (Nathan Gates), and Benjamin Bennett (Sidney Romero); and her great-grandchildren, Emma Reeves, Olivia Reeves, and Margalo Ryckman. She also leaves behind her nephews, Micah Schlede and Matthew Schlede, as well as her cherished high school friends, Joyce and Vicki.

Fran’s family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her post-cancer physical therapist, Christi Hippe, whose friendship and unwavering support meant so much to her. Special thanks also go to Amy, our hospice nurse, and Patti, our hospice CNA, who cared for Fran with such love and respect, becoming cherished friends of our family during this time.

The family also extends their heartfelt appreciation for all the condolences, thoughts, and prayers during this time; each gesture has been deeply felt and gratefully received.

The Family of Frances P. Schlede

A visitation for Fran will be held Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Olinger Hampden Mortuary & Cemetery, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231. A rosary will occur Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231. A mass of christian burial will occur Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 2375 E. Arizona Ave, Denver, CO 80210. A graveside service will occur Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Fran's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital , 501 St. Jude Place , Memphis , TN 38105 US, www.stjude.org.